By Hannah Powling
This film is based on the true story of Florence Foster Jenkins, the legendary American socialite and amateur operatic soprano, who dedicated her life to music and performing. Her voice bought joy to millions; but in an unconventional way. She was known and somewhat ridiculed for her lack of rhythm, pitch, tone and pretty poor singing abilities. Although this was the case, she was famous for her pure commitment and perseverance; and the atrocious singing of Florence Foster Jenkins becomes terribly touching and mesmerising.
You are instantly transported back to 1944 New York, opening up the scene in a theatre hall; and Hugh Grant plays her supportive actor husband, St Clair Bayfield. You quickly learn that Florence is a larger than life character of which her humble husband is happy to fall into the shadows of.
Meryl Streep plays Jenkins, the heroine. She is adorable, vulnerable and is instantly someone who find intriguing, and a woman you gain respect for. Jenkins pursues singing and in her head it sounds beautiful, but to everyone else, well, not so much. This film is all about her journey to her final performance in Carnegie Hall; and carrying out her ultimate dream of becoming a great singer. In the process, her husband and manager St Clair’s determination to protect his beloved Florence from the truth proves to be his greatest challenge.
Florence Foster Jenkins will wrench your hearts (and eardrums) – it is truly a funny and touching, must-see film.
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